Liverpool finally finds their Coutinho replacement in Takumi Minamino
Last year January, Liverpool lost what was one of their most lethal assets at the time in Philippe Coutinho.
Every attempt to stop the move from Anfield to Camp Nou failed and fell on deaf Coutinho ears. It was a long and frustrating saga for all parties involved.
During the time, Jurgen Klopp was recognised as arrogant not to replace the attacking midfielder, opting to use the money for the then, most expensive defender signing and goalkeeper signing. Nothing was put back into the attacking lineup or midfield.
The Reds boss was adamant on using his stock at the club, and was happy with the fact there were many injury returns. Since then, its been nothing but pure happiness and bliss for the German boss.
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A Champions League gold medal and a valiant title challenge on Man City was the outcome. Move on a few months, and this side is defending the Champions League gold and are leaders of the Premier League, 10 points clear at the summit.
Yes, this displays the Coutinho hangover was over a long while back, but now it’s actually been made official with the signing of Takumi Minamino. The price, the type of player, and the mystery of the Japanese signing makes it the perfect replacement.
If you’ve watched him play. He ticks all the boxes the Samba playmaker does, but in fact, he has a bit more boxes next to his name and is the type of player Klopp enjoys working with.
The duo’s most recent form showcases it all…
For club and country, Minamino has made 30 appearances, scoring 16 goals while assisting three. Coutinho on the other side has made 45 appearances, scored 14 goals and eight. You can decide who has a better return over a shorter period of games.
"In total, Minamino made 199 appearances for Salzburg, scoring 64 goals, while he has earned 22 caps for Japan and netted 11 times since making his debut in October 2015. (via: liverpoolfc.com)"